PV Gap

Pauline Said:

What is a Good but Simple Way to Compare How Wind Power and Solar Energy can Move an Object?

We Answered:

I would say by comparing how many Watts either source could produce under efficient conditions. Once you've got the energy they're both going to move an object in an equal ratio; it doesn't matter where that energy came from.

In some manner it does matter what we're talking about moving though. If we're talking boats that's completely different from cars or something else.

Katrina Said:

Intelligent Liberals, what are your thoughts on nuclear energy, solar power, and hydro-power?

We Answered:

Nuclear - Totally in favor. Nuclear is the middle-term solution to get us off fossil fuels quickly while other forms of power are still in R&D mode. It is the ONLY zero carbon solution with the capability (once the politics and lawsuits get out of the way) to meet our needs.

Solar - Until someone can develop a photovoltaic cell that is cheap enough and durable enough to mount on just about every upward facing surface, Solar is probably a dead letter. Wind and tidal power are the better bets I think. Actually, considering that photovoltaic cells create HUGE amount of pollutants when manufactured, it is debatable at best if they are even good for the environment. But perhaps technology can change that.

Hydro - Hydro and geothermal are the two renewables that are cost-effective right now. The problem is that they are very location dependant. They are part of the solution, but cannot be the primary solution.

Wind/Tidal - You left out these two which I think are the two likely long term winners. Tidal power in particular is nice because it is predictable. But neither are ready for primetime....yet.